Place cherries, sugar, lemon juice, and ¼ cup water in a medium-sized, heavy-bottomed pot. Bring to a boil; lower flame and simmer until cherries are soft.

Dissolve cornstarch in two tablespoons water. Add a bit of the hot liquid to this and then add to the pot.

Stir constantly while returning to a boil. The mixture should thicken. Close flame. Add almond extract if desired. Allow to cool.